02: Using a Rubric to Evaluate Topic Sentences
Now let's move step by step through the different parts of these analytical paragraphs. We will use the rubric to evaluate, and by that I mean "grade," the different parts of these model responses.
Why Focus on Just One Part?
You’ve seen the full model responses — now let’s break them down piece by piece. We’re starting with the topic sentence, the first sentence in a paragraph, because it sets the tone and direction for everything that follows.
Why do teachers provide rubrics?
A good rubric doesn't just "score" your work — it describes your skills. Each column represents a stage of growth. If you want to get stronger as a writer, use the rubric to figure out:
- Where you are right now.
- What the next level looks like.
- What you need to change or add to level up.
What Does a Topic Sentence Do?
In an analytical paragraph, a strong topic sentence usually does three things:
- Names the text and author
- Provides relevant context for the paragraph
- Makes an overarching claim (a debatable idea you’re going to prove)
Think of it as a mini-thesis just for that paragraph.